Experience a piece of bourbon history with the 1989 ROLLING-K OLD CROW, a testament to the original sour mash tradition. Bottled in 1989, this NAS expression embodies classic Kentucky craftsmanship, offering unparalleled depth and character from a bygone era. A true collector's gem, perfect for savoring.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and inviting bouquet hinting at aged complexity. Expect initial notes of dried apricot, fig, and dark cherry, quickly overlaid with well-integrated oak, old leather, and a whisper of antique book. Underlying these are delicate spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and a faint hint of clove—alongside a subtle sweetness of caramel and perhaps a touch of crème brûlée. There's a mineralic quality that speaks to its age and Frankfort origins.

Palate: The entry is remarkably smooth and coating, showcasing a rich tapestry of flavors. A wave of sweet dark fruits—stewed plums, raisins, and candied orange peel—unfolds first, balanced by a significant yet refined oak presence. This isn't harsh wood, but rather seasoned oak contributing notes of vanilla bean, toasted almond, and a touch of tobacco. Mid-palate, look for brown sugar, maple syrup, and a gentle rye spice that offers a pleasant warmth. Given the 'sour mash' designation and 1989 production, there's a good chance of a classic, robust bourbon character that balances sweetness with a structured spice.

Finish: Long, warm, and exceptionally gratifying. The oak and spice linger beautifully, evolving into a pleasant dryness that beckons another sip. Notes of dark chocolate, roasted coffee bean, and a wisp of smoldering embers might emerge. The fruit sweetness gently fades, leaving behind a persistent memory of its age and craftsmanship, with a final hint of peppery spice and lingering caramel.

About the Distillery

Old Crow Distillery has a rich history dating back to 1835, famously founded by Dr. James Crow, a Scottish immigrant chemist credited with pioneering the sour mash process. Located in Frankfort and later Clermont, Kentucky, the distillery was renowned for producing high-quality bourbon that became a staple and benchmark for American whiskey, embodying traditional production methods for over a century.